Israeli Defense Minister declares a 48-hour state of emergency due to escalating tensions with Lebanon.
Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, declared the emergency, citing a "special situation in the home front" that grants the IDF Home Front Command the authority to issue restrictions.
During emergencies, the term "special situation" is used to provide authorities with enhanced powers over the civilian population, facilitating efforts to ensure their protection. The state of emergency is initially valid for 48 hours, unless extended by cabinet ministers.
Amidst mounting tensions, the Israeli public remains vigilant, preparing for potential further incidents.
Earlier today, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), cautioned Lebanese residents in southern Lebanon about potential Israeli attacks in response to Hezbollah's actions.
During a press conference, the IDF spokesperson stated, "We would like to warn the Lebanese citizens in southern Lebanon that we have identified Hezbollah's preparations to conduct large-scale projectile fire into Israeli areas near your residences. Your safety is at risk. We will act to eliminate the threat posed by Hezbollah."
Residents near the areas where Hezbollah operates are urged to immediately move away from those locations.
Hezbollah is expected to launch rockets, missiles, and possibly unmanned aerial vehicles toward Israel in the near future. The Home Front Command will issue life-saving instructions for different regions, updating designated protected areas. IDF is taking all necessary measures to protect the citizens of Israel.
Following the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Iran has promised retaliation, prompting Israel to prepare for potential hostilities. While Israel has not confirmed or denied involvement in Haniyeh's death, it had previously threatened to execute him and other senior Hamas figures for their role in the October 7 terrorist attacks.
Tensions in the Middle East have heightened after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced Ismail Haniyeh's death in an attack in Tehran on July 31.
